The Perfect Muslim-Friendly Itinerary: 13 Days in New Zealand's South & North Islands

Welcome to your ultimate family adventure in New Zealand! This 13-day, 12-night Muslim-friendly itinerary is designed to immerse you and your loved ones in the breathtaking beauty and diverse experiences of New Zealand’s South and North Islands.

From the snow-capped peaks and sparkling lakes of Queenstown and Wanaka to the vibrant geothermal wonders of Rotorua and the rich cultural heritage of Wellington, this itinerary offers something for everyone. You’ll explore charming towns, engage in thrilling outdoor activities, relax in natural hot springs, and yes, halal food included!

With family-friendly accommodations and the flexibility of campervan travel, this itinerary ensures a comfortable and unforgettable experience for both adults and kids. Whether you’re skiing in the winter wonderlands or enjoying the blooms of spring, New Zealand’s landscapes and adventures await you!

Day 1: Arrival in Queenstown

Morning

• Arrive in Queenstown. After a long flight, pick up your campervan at the airport and familiarise yourself with its features.
• Take some time to settle in and organise your belongings. If this is your first time driving a campervan, fret not, we have some tips to kickstart your adventure:

Credit: Miles Holden

Tips for Campervan Travel

Safety on the Road: Always follow New Zealand’s road rules, keep to the left, and be cautious on winding roads. Ensure everyone in the vehicle wears seat belts at all times.

Campervan Maintenance: Regularly check your vehicle’s fuel, oil, and tyres. Follow the rental company’s guidelines for maintenance, and be aware of the locations of service stations and campervan repair shops along your route.

Practical Tips: Plan your routes and book campsites in advance. allow plenty of time for each leg of your journey so you are not rushing and take regular breaks. Utilise campervan apps such as CamperMate and Rankers to find campsites, dump stations, and attractions. Keep a basic toolkit and spare tyre handy, and know how to use them.

Afternoon

• It’s your first day in New Zealand, so let’s take it easy.
• Head to Queenstown Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden on Lake Wakatipu's shores.
• Walk along the picturesque trails, let the kids enjoy the playground, and have a picnic by the lake.

Looking for more things to do in Queenstown? Check out these 6 Activities To Cross Off Your Queenstown Travel Bucket List.

Nearby halal food

Erik’s Fish and Chips.

Address: 13 Earl Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Opening hours: 11:30 am–8:45 pm (Daily)

For more halal options and prayer facilities in New Zealand, check outthis guide!

Accommodation

Melbourne Lodge

Rate: From RM452/night

Address: 35 Melbourne Street, Queenstown City Center, Queenstown, New Zealand, 9348

Or, if you’re staying overnight in the campervan:

Queenstown Top 10 Holiday Park

Rate: From RM350/night

Address: 70 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown 9371, New Zealand

Day 2: Exploring Queenstown

Morning

Credit: Tourism New Zealand

• Start your day with a ride on the Skyline Queenstown gondola. The gondola takes you up Bob’s Peak, offering breathtaking views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains.
• Once at the top, enjoy a few rounds on the luge track, a fun activity for both kids and adults!

Afternoon

• After lunch, take the Walter Peak Eco Tour across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Farm, where you can plant a tree as part of a reforestation project, visit the market garden, and interact with farm animals.
• The tour concludes with a delicious ploughman’s platter and tea, where you can enjoy some of the local produce.

Nearby halal food

Turkish Kebabs

Address: 30 Camp St, O’Connells Pavilion, Queenstown.

Opening hours: 11 am–3 pm, 5–9 pm

Day 3: Adventure Day in Queenstown

Morning

Credit: Tourism New Zealand

• If you’re feeling fancy, embark on a Milford Sound Private Charter flight with Glenorchy Air where you can enjoy a scenic flight over the Southern Alps and Fiordland National Park.

Afternoon

• Continue your adventure when you land at Milford Sound Airport and board a private cruise.
• Savour gourmet treats and drinks while soaking in the stunning fjord landscapes.
• After the cruise, fly back to Queenstown, taking in more aerial views of the pristine alpine lakes and rugged mountains.

Evening

• If you still have some energy left, head over to Beach Street for souvenir shopping and stroll around the waterfront area for your final evening in Queenstown.

Day 4: Queenstown to Wanaka

Morning

• Pack up your campervan, pick up your groceries and drive to Wanaka (approx. 1.5 hours). Along the way, stop at Arrowtown, a charming historic gold-mining town.
• Explore the quaint streets and if you have time, visit the Lakes District Museum.

Afternoon

Credit: Tourism New Zealand

• Continue your drive to Wanaka. Upon arrival, check into LandEscape Wānaka and set up at your campsite.
• Nestled amongst the rolling hills, crystal clear waters and snow-capped peaks of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea, this accommodation is perfect for nature lovers.
• You can also enjoy the unique experience of soaking in a hot tub under the stars, with food delivery straight to your SpaGazers hot tub!

Evening

• After a relaxing soak, enjoy the serene atmosphere and clear night skies of Wanaka.

Day 5: Wanaka and Surroundings

Morning

• Start your day with a visit to Puzzling World, a fun attraction with a maze, illusion rooms, and quirky architecture that’s sure to entertain the whole family!

Afternoon

• Visit the Wanaka Lavender Farm, where you can stroll through beautiful lavender and flower fields, meet farm animals, and enjoy lavender-infused treats at the farm café.
• Be sure to visit the Wānaka Lavender Farm shop too, where you can bring home a range of lavender products that are made on the farm. Browse the collection, from soaps and creams to oils and culinary lavender. Perfect for a little self-care, or as gifts!

Or, if you’re feeling adventurous (and it’s the winter season), you can try skiing!

• Perfect for families and beginners, Treble Cone is your go-to spot for fun on the slopes.
• Enjoy gentle, wide runs with stunning lake and mountain views.
• The beginner area and kids' zones are ideal for learning, with expert instructors ready to help you master the basics.
• Off the slopes, relax in cosy cafes and soak in the friendly atmosphere.
• With top-notch facilities, rental gear, and easy access, skiing in Treble Cone promises a delightful, fun-filled adventure for everyone.

Evening

Credit: LandEscape Wānaka

• If you still have some energy left, take a family-friendly hike along the shore of Lake Wanaka. The easy walk to the famous Wanaka Tree is perfect for all ages.
• Or, you can also rent one of LandEscape Wānaka’s e-bikes that will take you effortlessly through the very best of Wanaka.

Day 6: Wanaka to Kaikōura

Morning

• The drive towards Kaikōura takes approximately 7.5 hours so make sure to take breaks and admire the beautiful landscapes along the way.
• Break your journey into two stops: Lake Tekapo (3 hours drive) and Christchurch (3 hours drive) for a short break before driving for another 2 hours to Kaikōura.

Afternoon

• Arrive at Lynton Downs Farm Stay, a charming property on a working sheep and beef farm near Kaikōura.
• This newly renovated property offers cosy accommodations with modern amenities where you can enjoy guided farm tours, participate in sheep shearing, and feed the lambs, providing kids with an educational and interactive farm experience.
• The property also features several scenic walking trails, perfect for exploring the beautiful countryside.
• With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and hands-on farm activities, Lynton Downs Farm Stay is an ideal retreat for families seeking a unique and memorable rural adventure!

Evening

• Enjoy a home-cooked meal prepared with fresh farm ingredients. Spend the evening relaxing in the cosy accommodations and soaking in the tranquil rural atmosphere.

Day 7: Exploring Kaikōura

Morning

• It’s time for an exciting EcoZip adventure!
• The zipline trails offer spectacular sea and mountain views, and the experience includes learning about the region’s history and efforts to restore native forests.
• This eco-friendly zipline park features over 2.2 km of zipline trails with breathtaking sea and mountain views.
• Suitable for children aged six and above, the experience includes a guided 3.5-hour tour that shares fascinating local history and stories.
• Participants also contribute to environmental conservation, helping restore native forests on Rakanui Station's farmland.
• With its combination of adventure, education, and conservation, EcoZip Kaikōura is perfect for a fun and enriching family outing.

Afternoon

Credit: Tourism New Zealand

• Join Hapuku Kitchen for a delightful farm-to-table experience where you'll learn to cook with the freshest local ingredients.
• Their hands-on cooking classes are perfect for food enthusiasts of all skill levels.
• Enjoy harvesting herbs and vegetables from their organic garden, and then creating delicious dishes in the modern kitchen.
• With stunning mountain and ocean views, Hapuku Kitchen offers a unique, immersive culinary adventure.
• After your cooking session, relax and savour your creations in the cosy dining area.
• It’s the perfect time to bond as a family too!

Evening

• Return to Lynton Downs Farm Stay for some relaxation as you’ll have a long day of driving tomorrow!

Day 8: Kaikōura to Wellington

Morning

• Pack up your campervan and get ready for your journey towards Wellington.
• The whole journeydrive will take approximately 6 hours and includes a ferry ride in Picton so do make sure you take one or two breaks to stretch your legs.
• Enjoy the coastal and inland scenery along the way.

Afternoon

Credit: Tourism New Zealand

• Arrive in Wellington and, if you have time, visit Te Papa Museum, New Zealand’s national museum.
• This vibrant museum offers a fantastic journey through the country's rich history and culture.
• Discover captivating exhibits like the colossal squid, the immersive Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War, and the interactive nature zones.
• With its stunning waterfront location and free entry, Te Papa is a must-visit for families and curious travellers.
• Delve into Māori culture, explore the natural world, and enjoy hands-on activities for all ages.
• Te Papa is where stories come to life, making it the perfect spot for an unforgettable adventure!

Evening

• Explore Wellington’s waterfront area, with its vibrant atmosphere and family-friendly restaurants.

Nearby halal food

Mughlai MerCury

Address: 2/248 Willis Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

Opening hours: 6–10 pm (Tuesday - Friday), 6–9.30 p, (Saturday-Monday)

Accommodation in Wellington

Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park

Rate: From RM530/night

Address: 95 Hutt Park Road, Moera, Lower Hutt 5010, New Zealand

Day 9: Discovering Wellington

Morning

Credit: Tourism New Zealand

• Head to Weta Workshop for a fascinating tour of the studios where special effects for films like “The Lord of the Rings” and “Avatar” were created.
• This world-famous workshop brings your favourite films to life!
• Explore the enchanting world of The Lord of the Rings, Avatar, and more with our behind-the-scenes tours.
• Marvel at stunning props, costumes, and miniatures, and even try your hand at special effects!
• The friendly guides will share fascinating stories of the magic behind the movies.
• You don’t have to be a film buff to enjoy this place as Weta Workshop offers a unique, fun-filled experience you won't forget!

Afternoon

Credit: Tourism New Zealand

• Visit Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, a unique wildlife sanctuary just minutes from downtown Wellington.
• Step into a lush, predator-free haven where New Zealand's unique native species thrive.
• Stroll through picturesque trails, spot rare birds like the kiwi and takahē, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
• If you want to learn more about the animals here, just approach one of the friendly guides who will share amazing stories about conservation efforts and the fascinating creatures that call Zealandia home.
• Perfect for families and nature enthusiasts, Zealandia offers an unforgettable, fun-filled adventure!

Evening

• In the evening, check out the Cuba Street district.
• This eclectic area buzzes with energy, offering a delightful mix of quirky boutiques, trendy cafes, and lively street art.
• Stroll along the pedestrian-friendly street, enjoy the iconic Bucket Fountain, and indulge in delicious treats from the bustling night market.
• With its bohemian vibe and colourful atmosphere, Cuba Street is a haven for foodies, shoppers, and art lovers alike.
• Whether you're sipping on a craft coffee, discovering unique vintage finds, or simply soaking in the lively street performances, Cuba Street has everything for everyone!

Nearby halal food

Hillside Kitchen (vegetarian restaurant)

Address: 241 Tinakori Road, Thorndon, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

Opening hours: 5–9 pm (closed on Monday and Tuesday)

Day 10: Wellington to Rotorua

Morning

• The drive towards Rotorua takes approx. 6 hours, a journey that will take you through diverse landscapes.
• Enjoy the scenic drive and take breaks.
• You can stop to stretch your legs or enjoy lunch at Taihape (3 hours drive).
• Make sure to check out the iconic gumboot that’s made out of corrugated iron and number eight wire.

Evening

• Arrive in Rotorua and relax in one of Rotorua’s many hot spring spas, such as Polynesian Spa.
• Nestled on the shores of Lake Rotorua, this world-renowned spa offers rejuvenating thermal pools and luxurious treatments.
• Soak in the healing waters of our alkaline and acidic hot springs, surrounded by breathtaking views.
• Indulge in a blissful massage or spa therapy, perfect for unwinding and recharging.
• With family pools, private pools, and adult-only areas, there's something for everyone.
• Whether you're seeking serenity or a fun family outing, Polynesian Spa provides an unforgettable, soothing experience!

Nearby halal food

Ali Baba's Tunisian Cuisine

Address: 1146 Tutanekai Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand

Opening hours: 1:30 am–9 pm (Daily)

Accommodation in Rotorua

Rotorua TOP 10 Holiday Park

Rate: From RM380/night

Address: 723 Tarawera Road, Lake Ōkareka, Rotorua 3076, New Zealand

Day 11: Exploring Rotorua

Morning

• Explore Rotorua and visit Whakarewarewa, New Zealand's living Maori village and geothermal wonderland.
• This incredible destination offers a unique blend of culture and nature. Marvel at the bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and stunning hot springs as you explore this geothermal paradise.
• Experience authentic Maori culture with guided tours, traditional performances, and delicious hangi meals cooked in natural steam vents.
• Perfect for families and adventure seekers, Whakarewarewa offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich traditions and natural beauty of New Zealand.

Afternoon

• If you can’t get enough of geothermal, visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, one of the most colourful and diverse geothermal areas in New Zealand.
• Walk the trails and marvel at the bubbling mud pools, vibrant hot springs, and the famous Champagne Pool.

Evening

• Settle in for the night as you’ll have a long day tomorrow!

Day 12: Rotorua to Waikato

Morning

• Drive to Waikato (approx. 2 hours) and visit the Hobbiton Movie Set, where the iconic scenes from “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” were filmed.
• Nestled in the heart of Matamata, this iconic attraction invites you to explore the charming hobbit holes, lush gardens, and the famous Green Dragon Inn.
• Join a guided tour to hear behind-the-scenes stories, snap photos in front of Bilbo's house, and enjoy a complimentary drink at the inn.
• Perfect for fans of all ages, Hobbiton offers a whimsical, immersive experience that feels like stepping into a fairy tale!

Afternoon

• Head to Waitomo Caves (approx. 1 hour) to experience the magical glowworm caves.
• Marvel at the dazzling glow worms as you glide through the famous Glowworm Grotto by boat.
• Explore the awe-inspiring limestone formations in the Ruakuri and Aranui Caves with expert guides who share fascinating tales of the caves' history.
• For thrill-seekers, try black water rafting for a unique underground experience. Perfect for families and adventurers, Waitomo Caves offers a magical journey into nature's hidden treasures.

Nearby halal food

Kebabalicious

Address: 64b Victoria Street, Leamington, Cambridge 3434, New Zealand

Opening hours: 10am - 9pm

Accommodation in Hamilton

Quantum Lodge Motor Inn

Rate: From RM800/night

Address: 1 Karewa Place, Pukete, Hamilton 3241, New Zealand

Or, if you have an early flight to go home tomorrow, you can drive to Auckland (approx. 1 hour) and stay overnight there.

Accommodation in Auckland

ibis budget Auckland Airport

Rate: From RM456/night

Address: 2 Leonard Isitt Drive, Auckland Airport, Auckland 2150, New Zealand

Day 13: Departure

Morning

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and pack up your belongings.
• Drive back to Auckland (approx. 1.5 hours), return your campervan, and prepare for your departure flight. Make sure to leave enough time for any last-minute shopping!
• Board your flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of your New Zealand adventure.

As your incredible 13-day journey through New Zealand's South and North Islands comes to an end, you'll depart with a heart full of memories and a camera brimming with stunning photos. New Zealand has a way of captivating its visitors, leaving them with a longing to return. Until next time, cherish the moments you’ve created and know that the Land of the Long White Cloud will always welcome you back for more adventures.

This article is brought to you by Tourism New Zealand.